More than 11,000 institutions worldwide accept IELTS, making it one of the most trusted English proficiency exams. For students whose native language is not English, IELTS acts as proof of their ability to read, write, listen, and speak effectively. Because of its global acceptance, especially in major English-speaking countries, IELTS remains the top choice for academic and migration purposes.

Among the four modules—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—the IELTS Writing section is often considered the toughest. But with the right understanding and strategy, scoring 6+ or even 7+ bands is absolutely achievable.

What Is IELTS Writing?

IELTS Writing evaluates your ability to:

  • Present ideas clearly

  • Write in a structured and logical way

  • Use accurate grammar

  • Apply appropriate vocabulary

The Writing test differs slightly in IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, but both require strong reasoning, organisation, and language skills.

1. IELTS Academic Writing

IELTS Academic Writing consists of two tasks: Task 1 and Task 2.

Task 1: Report Writing

You will be asked to describe and compare information presented in a:

  • Bar graph

  • Table

  • Pie chart

  • Diagram

  • Map

  • Process chart

You must summarise trends, highlight key features, and present an academic-style explanation in at least 150 words. Spend no more than 20 minutes on this task.

How to Structure Task 1

A clear 4-paragraph structure works best:

  1. Introduction
    Paraphrase the question in one sentence.

  2. Overview
    Present the main trends or key features (write this before the body paragraphs).

  3. Body Paragraph 1
    Explain major details, comparisons, or stages.

  4. Body Paragraph 2
    Add supporting data, contrasting points, or continuing process steps.

Avoid bullet points and always maintain an academic tone.

Task 2: Essay Writing

Task 2 requires you to write an essay of at least 250 words on a given topic. You must present your views clearly, support them with examples, and follow a logical structure. Spend 40 minutes on this task.

How to Structure Task 2

  1. Introduction
    Write 2 concise sentences summarising the topic.

  2. Body Paragraph 1
    Present your first idea with an explanation + example.

  3. Body Paragraph 2
    Present your second idea with an explanation + example.

  4. Conclusion
    Summarise your main points without adding new information.

2. IELTS General Training Writing

IELTS General Training also has Task 1 and Task 2, but the first task is different.

Task 1: Letter Writing

You must write a formal, semi-formal, or informal letter (minimum 150 words) based on a situation. You will be given bullet points that must be included in your response.

Your letter may require you to:

  • Provide general or factual information

  • Express opinions

  • Make requests or suggestions

  • Offer explanations

Plagiarism, irrelevant content, or incorrect tone can reduce your score.

Letter Format

  • Salutation

  • Body Paragraph 1

  • Body Paragraph 2

  • Body Paragraph 3

  • Closing Remarks

Task 2 (Same as Academic)

Essay writing criteria and structure remain the same for both Academic and General Training.

IELTS Writing Assessment Criteria

To score 6+ or 7+ bands, you must understand what the examiner expects. The writing test is marked across four equal criteria (25% each):

1. Task Achievement (Task Response)

The examiner checks:

  • Whether you answered all parts of the question

  • Relevance and clarity of ideas

  • Proper development of arguments

  • Use of examples

2. Coherence and Cohesion

This assesses:

  • Logical flow of ideas

  • Paragraph organisation

  • Use of linking words (however, furthermore, as a result, although, etc.)

3. Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)

The examiner looks for:

  • Variety of vocabulary

  • Spelling

  • Accurate use of formal words

  • Topic-related terms

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

You must demonstrate:

  • Correct grammar and sentence structure

  • Mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences

  • Proper use of tenses, passive voice, modals, and subject–verb agreement

Top IELTS Writing Tips to Score Beyond 6 Bands

1. Master Time Management

You have only 60 minutes for both tasks. Practice writing under timed conditions—20 minutes for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2.

2. Maintain the Required Word Count

  • Task 1 → Minimum 150 words

  • Task 2 → Minimum 250 words

Writing too little = penalty.
Writing too much = wasted time.

Stick to efficient, relevant writing.

3. Stay Relevant to the Topic

Examiners reduce scores immediately if you go off-topic. Always address exactly what the question asks.

Example:
If the question is about solutions to corruption, do not describe corruption in general.

4. Structure Your Ideas Clearly

Good structure = higher cohesion score.

Use linking words such as: however, furthermore, moreover, consequently, as a result, although, and therefore to maintain flow.

5. Understand the Marking Criteria

Before practising, learn how you are evaluated:

  • Respond fully to the task

  • Organise ideas logically

  • Use a wide range of vocabulary

  • Maintain grammatical accuracy

Self-evaluation based on these criteria helps you improve faster.

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